Top 5 Best Places for Traditional Thai Food in Pattaya

The Seafood Institution by the Sea

If you ask a Thai person where to eat in Pattaya, "Mum Aroi" (which means 'Delicious Corner') is almost always the first answer. Located in the fishing village area of Naklua, this massive open-air restaurant sits right on the water. It is famous for its fresh seafood and traditional Thai recipes that haven't been watered down for tourists. The Fried Sea Bass with Fish Sauce and Curry Crab here are legendary.

Opening Time: Daily, 10:30 – 23:00.

Location: Naklua Road (Behind Bang Lamung Police Station).

How to get there:

Taxi: Tell the driver "Mum Aroi Naklua" (Make sure to say Naklua, as there is another branch). It is about a 15-minute drive from Terminal 21 Pattaya.

The Cultural Dining Experience

For a night of culture with your curry, Ruen Thai is the best choice. The restaurant is built in the style of a traditional open-air wooden Thai pavilion. The highlight here is the nightly traditional Thai Dance & Music Show (usually starting around 19:40), where performers in exquisite costumes dance while you dine. It serves royal-style Thai cuisine, making it perfect for a romantic date or a family introduction to Thai culture.

Opening Time: Daily, 10:00 – 22:00.

Location: Pattaya Second Road (Opposite Pattaya Soi 2).

How to get there:

Taxi: Tell the driver "Ruen Thai Sai Song" (Second Road). It is very close to the Tiffany's Show theater.

The Romantic Beachfront Dream

While slightly more modern, The Glass House makes the list for its unbeatable atmosphere. Set on a private beach in Na Jomtien, this vintage wooden house features tables right on the sand under pine trees. The menu focuses on high-quality traditional Thai seafood. Eating Spicy Seafood Salad with your feet in the sand while watching the sunset is an unforgettable Pattaya experience.

Opening Time: Daily, 11:00 – 23:30.

Location: Na Jomtien Soi 10 (South of Pattaya).

How to get there:

Taxi: This is about 20-30 minutes south of the city. Tell the driver "The Glass House Na Jomtien" (near Ambassador City Jomtien).

The Jungle Oasis with a Cause

Don't let the funny name fool you, this is one of the most beautiful restaurants in Pattaya. Located in the "Birds & Bees Resort," the restaurant is a multi-level wooden deck built into a jungle cliff overlooking the ocean. The food is excellent traditional Thai (try the Mieng Khum appetizer). The restaurant was founded to promote family planning in Thailand, so instead of a mint, you get a condom with your bill!

Opening Time: Daily, 07:00 – 23:00.

Location: Phra Tamnak Hill (Soi 4).

How to get there:

Taxi: Tell the driver "Birds and Bees Resort" on Phra Tamnak Hill.

The Authentic Late-Night Spot

If you want to eat where the locals eat (especially after a night out), Leng Kee is the institution. Open 24 hours, this Chinese-Thai restaurant has been serving Pattaya for decades. It’s not fancy—expect plastic chairs and bright light, but the food is incredible. It is famous for Roasted Duck, Crispy Pork, and incredibly fast stir-fry dishes. It is the ultimate comfort food spot.

Opening Time: 24 Hours.

Location: Central Pattaya Road (Klang).

How to get there:

Taxi: Tell the driver "Leng Kee Pattaya Klang". It is a major landmark in Central Pattaya.